第53章 初期的士师
§1
第53章 初期的士师
§2
Chap. 53 - The Earlier Judges
§3
各支派在迦南安居下来之后,没有一鼓作气地完成征服那地的工作。他们既对已得到的地区感到知足，于是战意消沉，战争就停止了。“及至以色列强盛了，就使迦南人作苦工，没有把他们全然赶出。”（士1:28）[1]{PP 543.1}
§4
After the settlement in Canaan the tribes made no vigorous effort to complete the conquest of the land. Satisfied with the territory already gained, their zeal soon flagged, and the war was discontinued. When Israel was strong, . . . they put the Canaanites to tribute, and did not utterly drive them out. Judges 1:28.{PP 543.1}[1]
§5
在耶和华面前，他早已信实地履行了他向以色列人所发的应许；约书亚已经击破迦南人的势力，并已将地分给各支派为业。所剩下的是要他们依靠上帝的帮助，去完成驱逐那地居民的工作；但这一点他们却没有办到。他们竟与迦南人立约，因而直接违背了上帝的命令，如此，他们就没有履行上帝应许他们承受迦南地为业所附带的条件。[2]{PP 543.2}
§6
The Lord had faithfully fulfilled, on His part, the promises made to Israel; Joshua had broken the power of the Canaanites, and had distributed the land to the tribes. It only remained for them, trusting in the assurance of divine aid, to complete the work of dispossessing the inhabitants of the land. But this they failed to do. By entering into league with the Canaanites they directly transgressed the command of God, and thus failed to fulfill the condition on which He had promised to place them in possession of Canaan.{PP 543.2}[2]
§7
从起初上帝在西奈山向他们说话时起，他就常常警告他们不可敬拜偶像。在颁布律法之后，他曾立时差遣摩西传给他们关于迦南诸国的信息说：“你不可跪拜他们的神，不可侍奉他，也不可效法他们的行为；却要把神像尽行拆毁，打碎他们的柱像。你们要侍奉耶和华你们的上帝，他必赐福与你的粮与你的水；也必从你们中间除去疾病。”（出23:24-25）上帝又应许他们，只要他们一直顺从他，他就必在他们面前制伏他们的仇敌。“凡你所到的地方，我要使那里的众民，在你面前惊骇，扰乱；又要使你一切仇敌，转背逃跑。我要打发黄蜂飞在你前面，把希未人、迦南人、赫人撵出去。我不在一年之内，将他们从你面前撵出去，恐怕地成为荒凉，野地的兽多起来害你。我要渐渐的将他们从你面前撵出去，等到你的人数加多，承受那地为业。……我要将那地的居民交在你手中，你要将他们从你面前撵出去。不可和他们并他们的神立约。他们不可住在你的地上，恐怕他们使你得罪我；你若侍奉他们的神，这必成为你的网罗。”（出23:27-33）后来摩西在未死之前，曾以最严肃的方式，重述了这些指示，约书亚也是如此。[3]{PP 543.3}
§8
From the very first communication of God with them at Sinai, they had been warned against idolatry. Immediately after the proclamation of the law the message was sent them by Moses concerning the nations of Canaan: Thou shalt not bow down to their gods, nor serve them, nor do after their works: but thou shalt utterly overthrow them, and quite break down their images. And ye shall serve the Lord your God, and He shall bless thy bread, and thy water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of thee. Exodus 23:24, 25. The assurance was given that so long as they remained obedient, God would subdue their enemies before them: I will send My fear before thee, and will destroy all the people to whom thou shalt come; and I will make all thine enemies turn their backs unto thee. And I will send hornets before thee, which shall drive out the Hivite, the Canaanite, and the Hittite, from before thee. I will not drive them out from before thee in one year; lest the land become desolate, and the beast of the field multiply against thee. By little and little I will drive them out from before thee, until thou be increased, and inherit the land. . . . I will deliver the inhabitants of the land into your hand; and thou shalt drive them out before thee. Thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor with their gods. They shall not dwell in thy land, lest they make thee sin against Me: for if thou serve their gods, it will surely be a snare unto thee. Exodus 23:27-33. These directions were reiterated in the most solemn manner by Moses before his death, and they were repeated by Joshua.{PP 543.3}[3]
§9
上帝把他的子民安置在迦南地，是要他们作中流砥柱，使罪恶的狂澜不至于泛滥于全世界。以色列人若能忠于上帝，他必使他们一直上进，胜而又胜。他要将一些比迦南人更大更强的国民，交在他们的手中。那应许乃是：“你们若留意谨守遵行我所吩咐这一切的诫命，……他必从你们面前赶出这一切国民，就是比你们更大更强的国民，你们便得他们的地。凡你们脚掌所踏之地，都必归你们；从旷野和黎巴嫩，并伯拉大河，直到西海，都要作你们的境界，必无一人能在你们面前站立得住；耶和华你们的上帝，必照他所说的，使惧怕惊恐临到你们所踏之地的居民。”（申11:22-25）[4]{PP 544.1}
§10
God had placed His people in Canaan as a mighty breastwork to stay the tide of moral evil, that it might not flood the world. If faithful to Him, God intended that Israel should go on conquering and to conquer. He would give into their hands nations greater and more powerful than the Canaanites. The promise was: If ye shall diligently keep all these commandments which I command you, . . . then will the Lord drive out all these nations from before you, and ye shall possess greater nations and mightier than yourselves. Every place whereon the soles of your feet shall tread shall be yours: from the wilderness and Lebanon, from the river, the river Euphrates, even unto the uttermost sea shall your coast be. There shall no man be able to stand before you: for the Lord your God shall lay the fear of you and the dread of you upon all the land that ye shall tread upon, as He hath said unto you. Deuteronomy 11:22-25.{PP 544.1}[4]
§11
可惜他们不顾自己光明的前途，反而拣选了安逸与放任之路，错失征服全地的机会；以致这些拜偶像之国所剩下的百姓，成了他们多少世代的祸害，正如先知所说的，作了他们“眼中的刺，”和“肋下的荆棘。”（民33:55）[5]{PP 544.2}
§12
But regardless of their high destiny, they chose the course of ease and self-indulgence; they let slip their opportunities for completing the conquest of the land; and for many generations they were afflicted by the remnant of these idolatrous peoples, that were, as the prophet had foretold, as pricks in their eyes, and as thorns in their sides. Numbers 33:55.{PP 544.2}[5]
§13
以色列人“与他们混杂相合，学习他们的行为。”（诗106:34-38,40）他们与迦南人通婚，拜偶像之风就像瘟疫一样蔓延全地。“侍奉他们的偶像，这就成了自己的网罗。把自己的儿女祭祀鬼魔，……那地就被血污秽了。……所以耶和华的怒气，向他的百姓发作，憎恶他的产业。”[6]{PP 544.3}
§14
The Israelites were mingled among the heathen, and learned their works. Psalm 106:35. They intermarried with the Canaanites, and idolatry spread like a plague throughout the land. They served their idols: which were a snare unto them. Yea, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto devils: . . . and the land was polluted with blood. . . . Therefore was the wrath of the Lord kindled against His people, insomuch that He abhorred His own inheritance. Psalm 106:36-40.{PP 544.3}[6]
§15
在那些曾经领受约书亚训诲的一代尚未过去之前，拜偶像的风气还不十分猖獗；可惜作父母的已经为儿女开了背道之门。那些初征服迦南地的人并没有注意耶和华的禁令，如此就撒下了罪恶的种子，在这以后的世代中，不断的结出苦毒的果子来。以前希伯来人的淳朴习惯，令他们身体强壮；及至他们与异邦人结交之后，他们就被引诱放纵食欲，养成恶习，以致体力渐渐衰退，心智和道德的力量也渐渐软弱了。以色列人因犯罪而与上帝隔绝，于是他的能力便离开了他们，他们就再也不能胜过他们的仇敌。这样，那原可以靠着上帝去制伏的列国，反而来管辖他们了。[7]{PP 544.4}
§16
Until the generation that had received instruction from Joshua became extinct, idolatry made little headway; but the parents had prepared the way for the apostasy of their children. The disregard of the Lords restrictions on the part of those who came in possession of Canaan sowed seed of evil that continued to bring forth bitter fruit for many generations. The simple habits of the Hebrews had secured them physical health; but association with the heathen led to the indulgence of appetite and passion, which gradually lessened physical strength and enfeebled the mental and moral powers. By their sins the Israelites were separated from God; His strength was removed from them, and they could no longer prevail against their enemies. Thus they were brought into subjection to the very nations that through God they might have subdued.{PP 544.4}[7]
§17
以色列人“离弃了领他们出埃及地的耶和华，他们列祖的上帝，”他曾“在旷野引他们如羊群。”“因他们的邱坛，惹了他的怒气，因他们雕刻的偶像，触动他的愤恨。”所以耶和华“离弃示罗的帐幕，就是他在人间所搭的帐棚；又将他的约柜交与人掳去，将他的荣耀交在敌人手中。”（士2:12；诗78:52,58,60-61）然而他并没有全然地弃绝他的子民。以色列中总有少数忠于耶和华的人；耶和华就时时兴起忠心和勇敢的人来革除拜偶像的恶习，并拯救以色列人脱离仇敌的手。但当拯救者去世，百姓的治理松弛之后，他们又渐渐回去敬拜偶像了。这样，背道与受罚，认罪与蒙救的故事，反复地重演了多年。[8]{PP 545.1}
§18
They forsook the Lord God of their fathers, which brought them out of the land of Egypt, and guided them in the wilderness like a flock. They provoked Him to anger with their high places, and moved Him to jealousy with their graven images. Therefore the Lord forsook the tabernacle of Shiloh, the tent which He placed among them; and delivered His strength into captivity, and His glory into the enemys hand. Judges 2:12; Psalm 78:52, 58, 60, 61. Yet He did not utterly forsake His people. There was ever a remnant who were true to Jehovah; and from time to time the Lord raised up faithful and valiant men to put down idolatry and to deliver the Israelites from their enemies. But when the deliverer was dead, and the people were released from his authority, they would gradually return to their idols. And thus the story of backsliding and chastisement, of confession and deliverance, was repeated again and again.{PP 545.1}[8]
§19
米所波大米王，摩押王，以后有非利士人，和西西拉所率领之迦南的夏琐人，先后压迫了以色列人。俄陀聂、以笏、珊迦、底波拉和巴拉，也先后兴起拯救了自己的同胞。但“以色列人又行耶和华眼中看为恶的事；耶和华就把他们交在米甸人手里。”（见士6:1）这事以前，压迫者的手压在约旦河东的支派，并不很重，但这次他们乃是最先受祸患的。[9]{PP 545.2}
§20
The king of Mesopotamia, the king of Moab, and after them the Philistines, and the Canaanites of Hazor, led by Sisera, in turn became the oppressors of Israel. Othniel, Shamgar, and Ehud, Deborah and Barak, were raised up as deliverers of their people. But again the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord; and the Lord delivered them into the hand of Midian. Heretofore the hand of the oppressor had fallen but lightly on the tribes dwelling east of the Jordan, but in the present calamities they were the first sufferers.{PP 545.2}[9]
§21
迦南南部的亚玛力人，和东部以及沙漠外的米甸人，一向是以色列人的死敌。在摩西的日子，米甸人几乎一度被以色列人所灭绝；但自那时以来，他们又渐渐强大起来了。他们久欲复仇；如今上帝保护的手既从以色列收回，他们的机会就到了。不但约旦河东的各支派，连迦南全地，都遭了他们的破坏。这些住在沙漠中极凶狠的野蛮人“像蝗虫那样多，”（士6:5）带着牛群羊群蜂拥而来。像灭人的瘟疫一样，从约旦河直到非利士平原，散布在全地之上。他们在庄稼初熟的时候就来，一直住到摘完了最后的果子为止。掠去地里一切的土产，并抢夺、虐待当地的居民，以后又回到沙漠去。因此，那些住在乡村的以色列人不得不放弃他们的家，去群集在有墙的城邑中，藏到堡垒里，甚至逃到山洞或山间的岩石中，躲避米甸人。这压迫继续达七年之久，以后百姓在他们的苦难之中，听了耶和华的责备，就承认他们的罪，上帝就又为他们兴起了一位拯救者。[10]{PP 545.3}
§22
The Amalekites on the south of Canaan, as well as the Midianites on its eastern border, and in the deserts beyond, were still the unrelenting enemies of Israel. The latter nation had been nearly destroyed by the Israelites in the days of Moses, but they had since increased greatly, and had become numerous and powerful. They had thirsted for revenge; and now that the protecting hand of God was withdrawn from Israel, the opportunity had come. Not alone the tribes east of Jordan, but the whole land suffered from their ravages. The wild, fierce inhabitants of the desert, as locusts for multitude (Judges 6:5, R.V.), came swarming into the land, with their flocks and herds. Like a devouring plague they spread over the country, from the river Jordan to the Philistine plain. They came as soon as the harvests began to ripen, and remained until the last fruits of the earth had been gathered. They stripped the fields of their increase and robbed and maltreated the inhabitants and then returned to the deserts. Thus the Israelites dwelling in the open country were forced to abandon their homes, and to congregate in walled towns, to seek refuge in fortresses, or even to find shelter in caves and rocky fastnesses among the mountains. For seven years this oppression continued, and then, as the people in their distress gave heed to the Lords reproof, and confessed their sins, God again raised up a helper for them.{PP 545.3}[10]
§23
基甸是玛拿西支派约阿施的儿子。他们这一族人并没有什么领导的地位，但约阿施的一家，却以勇敢和正直著称。关于他的众子有话说：“各人都有王子的样式。”（士8:18）约阿施的众子都已在抵抗米甸人的战役中阵亡了，只剩下一个基甸，而基甸的名望已为侵略者所恐惧。有一天，基甸正在打麦的时候，上帝的呼召临到他，要他去拯救他的百姓。那时基甸藏了一点麦子，并不敢到禾场上去打，故在靠近酒榨的一个地方打麦子；因为那时还不是葡萄成熟的时候，所以葡萄园不为敌人所注意。当基甸在暗暗地安静劳作时，他想到以色列人目前的景况就不胜悲愁，并考虑着如何可以使他的同胞挣脱压迫者的重轭。[11]{PP 546.1}
§24
Gideon was the son of Joash, of the tribe of Manasseh. The division to which this family belonged held no leading position, but the household of Joash was distinguished for courage and integrity. Of his brave sons it is said, Each one resembled the children of a king. All but one had fallen in the struggles against the Midianites, and he had caused his name to be feared by the invaders. To Gideon came the divine call to deliver his people. He was engaged at the time in threshing wheat. A small quantity of grain had been concealed, and not daring to beat it out on the ordinary threshing floor, he had resorted to a spot near the winepress; for the season of ripe grapes being still far off, little notice was now taken of the vineyards. As Gideon labored in secrecy and silence, he sadly pondered upon the condition of Israel and considered how the oppressors yoke might be broken from off his people.{PP 546.1}[11]
§25
忽然，“耶和华的使者”向基甸显现，用以下的话对他说：“大能的勇士啊，耶和华与你同在。”[12]{PP 546.2}
§26
Suddenly the Angel of the Lord appeared and addressed him with the words, Jehovah is with thee, thou mighty man of valor.{PP 546.2}[12]
§27
基甸便回答说：“主啊，耶和华若与我们同在，我们何至遭遇这一切事呢？我们的列祖不是向我们说，耶和华领我们从埃及上来吗？他那样奇妙的作为在哪里呢？现在他却丢弃我们，将我们交在米甸人手里。”[13]{PP 546.3}
§28
O my Lord, was his answer, if the Lord be with us, why then is all this befallen us? and where be all His miracles which our fathers told us of, saying, Did not the Lord bring us up from Egypt? but now the Lord hath forsaken us, and delivered us into the hands of the Midianites.{PP 546.3}[13]
§29
天上的使者回答说：“你靠着你这能力去从米甸人手里拯救以色列人，不是我差遣你去的吗？”[14]{PP 547.1}
§30
The Messenger of heaven replied, Go in this thy might, and thou shalt save Israel from the hand of the Midianites: have not I sent thee?{PP 547.1}[14]
§31
基甸要求一个证据，证明如今向他说话的，就是过去为以色列施行大事的立约的使者。古时上帝的使者向亚伯拉罕显现时，曾留在他那里，受他招待；如今基甸也恳切地留上帝的使者作他的宾客。于是他急忙到帐棚里，从他剩下的一点食物中，拿一只山羊羔和一些无酵饼来，献在使者的面前。但天使吩咐他“将肉和无酵饼放在这磐石上，把汤倒出来，”基甸就这样行了。于是上帝照着基甸的心愿给他显了一个神迹；天使用他手中的杖挨了肉和无酵饼，就有火从磐石中出来，烧尽了基甸所献的礼物，天使就不见了。[15]{PP 547.2}
§32
Gideon desired some token that the one now addressing him was the Covenant Angel, who in time past had wrought for Israel. Angels of God, who communed with Abraham, had once tarried to share his hospitality; and Gideon now entreated the divine Messenger to remain as his guest. Hastening to his tent, he prepared from his scanty store a kid and unleavened cakes, which he brought forth and set before Him. But the Angel bade him, Take the flesh and the unleavened cakes, and lay them upon this rock, and pour out the broth. Gideon did so, and then the sign which he had desired was given: with the staff in His hand, the Angel touched the flesh and the unleavened cakes, and a flame bursting from the rock consumed the sacrifice. Then the Angel vanished from his sight.{PP 547.2}[15]
§33
基甸的父亲约阿施曾在背道的事上与他的同胞有份，并曾在他所住的地方俄弗拉为巴力筑了一座大坛，那城的人就在这里敬拜巴力。基甸奉命去拆毁这坛，并要在天使用火焚烧他祭物的磐石上为耶和华筑一座坛，在那里献燔祭与耶和华。献祭给上帝的工作原来是指定由祭司担任的，而且必须在示罗的祭坛上举行；但那设立仪文奉献礼，而又是一切祭物所预表的主，有权柄改变自己所定的条例。以色列人蒙拯救之前，必须先对巴力的敬拜发出严重的抗议。基甸在出去与他百姓的仇敌作战之前，必须先向崇拜偶像之风宣战。[16]{PP 547.3}
§34
Gideons father, Joash, who shared in the apostasy of his countrymen, had erected at Ophrah, where he dwelt, a large altar to Baal, at which the people of the town worshiped. Gideon was commanded to destroy this altar and to erect an altar to Jehovah over the rock on which the offering had been consumed, and there to present a sacrifice to the Lord. The offering of sacrifice to God had been committed to the priests, and had been restricted to the altar at Shiloh; but He who had established the ritual service, and to whom all its offerings pointed, had power to change its requirements. The deliverance of Israel was to be preceded by a solemn protest against the worship of Baal. Gideon must declare war upon idolatry before going out to battle with the enemies of his people.{PP 547.3}[16]
§35
基甸忠心地履行了上帝的指示。他知道若是明明去行，就必惹起众人的反对，所以他只能暗暗去作；他既有仆人帮助，就在一夜之间把坛拆完了。第二天早晨，当俄弗拉的居民来敬拜巴力时，他们看见这事就大大发怒。若不是约阿施出来为他儿子辩护，他已经知道天使显现的事，他们就要把基甸治死了。约阿施说：“你们是为巴力争论吗？你们要救他吗？谁为他争论，趁早将谁治死；巴力如果是神，有人拆毁他的坛，让他为自己争论吧。”如果巴力不能保护自己的坛，他怎能保护敬拜他的人呢？[17]{PP 547.4}
§36
The divine direction was faithfully carried out. Knowing that he would be opposed if it were attempted openly, Gideon performed the work in secret; with the aid of his servants, accomplishing the whole in one night. Great was the rage of the men of Ophrah when they came next morning to pay their devotions to Baal. They would have taken Gideons life had not Joash--who had been told of the Angels visit--stood in defense of his son. Will ye plead for Baal? said Joash. Will ye save him? he that will plead for him, let him be put to death whilst it is yet morning: if he be a god, let him plead for himself, because one hath cast down his altar. If Baal could not defend his own altar, how could he be trusted to protect his worshipers?{PP 547.4}[17]
§37
于是众人不再想用粗暴的手段对待基甸了；而且当基甸吹角备战的时候，俄弗拉人首先响应，出来聚集在他的旗帜之下。他以后又传信给他的本族玛拿西，以及亚设人，西布伦人和拿弗他利人，大家都应召出来了。[18]{PP 548.1}
§38
All thoughts of violence toward Gideon were dismissed; and when he sounded the trumpet of war, the men of Ophrah were among the first to gather to his standard. Heralds were dispatched to his own tribe of Manasseh, and also to Asher, Zebulum, and Naphtali, and all answered to the call.{PP 548.1}[18]
§39
基甸在没有得到更明确的凭据，使他确知这是上帝呼召他从事这工作，确知上帝必与他同在之前，他不敢率领这一支军队。他祈求说：“你如果照着所说的话，借我手拯救以色列人，我就把一团羊毛放在禾场上；若单是羊毛上有露水，别的地方都是干的，我就知道你必照着所说的话，借我手拯救以色列人。”到了早晨，果然羊毛是湿的，别的地方都是干的。但现在又有怀疑了，因为羊毛本身有吸收湿气的作用，所以他认为这试验或许不甚可靠。因此他求耶和华不要因他的过分慎重而向他发怒，他求上帝将先前的征兆倒证一次。他的要求也蒙允准了。[19]{PP 548.2}
§40
Gideon dared not place himself at the head of the army without still further evidence that God had called him to his work, and that He would be with him. He prayed, If Thou wilt save Israel by mine hand, as Thou hast said, behold, I will put a fleece of wool in the floor; and if the dew be on the fleece only, and it be dry upon all the earth besides, then shall I know that Thou wilt save Israel by mine hand, as Thou hast said. In the morning the fleece was wet, while the ground was dry. But now a doubt arose, since wool naturally absorbs moisture when there is any in the air; the test might not be decisive. Hence he asked that the sign be reversed, pleading that his extreme caution might not displease the Lord. His request was granted.{PP 548.2}[19]
§41
基甸既得了这样的鼓励，就带着他的军队去与侵略者作战。“那时米甸人、亚玛力人和东方人，都聚集过河，在耶斯列平原安营。”基甸所带领的全军只有三万二千人；但正当他面临强大的敌军时，耶和华的话临到他，说：“跟随你的人过多，我不能将米甸人交在他们手中，免得以色列人向我夸大，说，是我们自己的手救了我们。现在你要向这些人宣告说，凡惧怕胆怯的，可以离开基列山回去。”那些不愿应付危险和艰难的人，以及那些被属世的利益所引诱，以致离开上帝工作的人，必不会增加以色列军队的力量。他们的参加，只能使力量削弱。[20]{PP 548.3}
§42
Thus encouraged, Gideon led out his forces to give battle to the invaders. All the Midianites and the Amalekites and the children of the east were gathered together, and went over, and pitched in the valley of Jezreel. The entire force under Gideons command numbered only thirty-two thousand men; but with the vast host of the enemy spread out before him, the word of the Lord came to him: The people that are with thee are too many for Me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel vaunt themselves against Me, saying, Mine own hand hath saved me. Now therefore go to, proclaim in the ears of the people, saying, Whosoever is fearful and afraid, let him return and depart early from Mount Gilead. Those who were unwilling to face danger and hardships, or whose worldly interests would draw their hearts from the work of God, would add no strength to the armies of Israel. Their presence would prove only a cause of weakness.{PP 548.3}[20]
§43
以色列中向来就有一条律法，在他们将要上阵作战之前，必须在全营宣布说：“谁建造房屋，尚未奉献？他可以回家去，恐怕他阵亡，别人去奉献。谁种葡萄园，尚未用所结的果子？他可以回家去，恐怕他阵亡，别人去用。谁聘定了妻，尚未迎娶？他可以回家去，恐怕他阵亡，别人去娶。官长又要对百姓宣告说：谁惧怕胆怯，他可以回家去，恐怕他弟兄的心消化，和他一样。”（申20:5-8）[21]{PP 548.4}
§44
It had been made a law in Israel that before they went to battle the following proclamation should be made throughout the army: What man is there that hath built a new house, and hath not dedicated it? let him go and return to his house, lest he die in the battle, and another man dedicate it. And what man is he that hath planted a vineyard, and hath not yet eaten of it? let him also go and return unto his house, lest he die in the battle, and another man eat of it. And what man is there that hath betrothed a wife, and hath not taken her? let him go and return unto his house, lest he die in the battle, and another man take her. And the officers were to speak further to the people, saying, What man is there that is fearful and fainthearted? let him go and return unto his house, lest his brethrens heart faint as well as his heart. Deuteronomy 20:5-8.{PP 548.4}[21]
§45
基甸因为自己的人数与仇敌的人数比较起来，已经众寡悬殊，所以没有照着平常的习惯宣告以上的话，如今又宣布他的人数过多，这就使他不禁大为惊奇。耶和华看出百姓还存有骄傲和不信的心。他们当初听了基甸动人的号召，就愿意前来入伍；但他们一看到米甸人的大军时，许多人就胆颤心惊了。可是，如果以色列人得胜的话，这样的人就会把胜利归功给自己，而不把荣耀归给上帝呢。[22]{PP 549.1}
§46
Because his numbers were so few compared with those of the enemy, Gideon had refrained from making the usual proclamation. He was filled with astonishment at the declaration that his army was too large. But the Lord saw the pride and unbelief existing in the hearts of His people. Aroused by the stirring appeals of Gideon, they had readily enlisted; but many were filled with fear when they saw the multitudes of the Midianites. Yet, had Israel triumphed, those very ones would have taken the glory to themselves instead of ascribing the victory to God.{PP 549.1}[22]
§47
基甸听从了耶和华的指示，但他以沉重忧郁的心情看着二万二千人，就是他全军的三分之二以上的人回家去了。耶和华的话又临到他说：“人还是过多，你要带他们下到水旁，我好在那里为你试试他们；我指点谁说，这人可以同你去，他就可以同你去；我指点谁说，这人不可同你去，他就不可同你去。”于是基甸带他们下到水旁，好像是立时就要上阵去与仇敌作战似的。有少数的人匆匆忙忙地捧一点水在手中，边走边舔；但几乎全数的人，都不慌不忙地跪下喝水。一万人之中，只有三百人是用手捧水的；而且只有这三百人蒙选，其余的人则都被遣散回家去了。[23]{PP 549.2}
§48
Gideon obeyed the Lords direction, and with a heavy heart he saw twenty-two thousand, or more than two thirds of his entire force, depart for their homes. Again the word of the Lord came to him: The people are yet too many; bring them down unto the water, and I will try them for thee there: and it shall be, that of whom I say unto thee, This shall go with thee, the same shall go with thee; and of whomsoever I say unto thee, This shall not go with thee, the same shall not go. The people were led down to the waterside, expecting to make an immediate advance upon the enemy. A few hastily took a little water in the hand and sucked it up as they went on; but nearly all bowed upon their knees, and leisurely drank from the surface of the stream. Those who took of the water in their hands were but three hundred out of ten thousand; yet these were selected; all the rest were permitted to return to their homes.{PP 549.2}[23]
§49
人的品格往往是在最简单的事情上受到试验的。在危机四伏之际，凡只顾满足自己需要的人，是不能在紧急的时候负什么责任的。耶和华在他的工作上，没有地位留给闲懒怠惰和纵情任性的人。主所拣选的，是少数不愿单顾自己需要而放弃本分的人。这三百个人不但具有勇敢和自制的精神，同时也是大有信心的人。他们没有因拜偶像而污秽自己。上帝能指引这样的人，并用他们去成就拯救以色列人的工作。成功不在乎人数的多少。上帝能用少数人施行拯救，象用多数人一样。上帝在侍奉他的人身上所得的荣耀，不一定在乎他们的人数，而是在乎他们的品格。[24]{PP 549.3}
§50
By the simplest means character is often tested. Those who in time of peril were intent upon supplying their own wants were not the men to be trusted in an emergency. The Lord has no place in His work for the indolent and self-indulgent. The men of His choice were the few who would not permit their own wants to delay them in the discharge of duty. The three hundred chosen men not only possessed courage and self-control, but they were men of faith. They had not defiled themselves with idolatry. God could direct them, and through them He could work deliverance for Israel. Success does not depend upon numbers. God can deliver by few as well as by many. He is honored not so much by the great numbers as by the character of those who serve Him.{PP 549.3}[24]
§51
这时以色列人在山上扎营，俯瞰着山下平原上侵略者的营盘。“米甸人亚玛力人和一切东方人，都布散在平原，如同蝗虫那样多；他们的骆驼无数，多如海边的沙。”基甸想起明天的交战，便胆颤心惊起来了。但耶和华在夜间向他说话，吩咐他带着仆人普拉下到米甸人的营里去。并暗示他说，在那里他必能听到一些足以鼓励他的事。基甸去了，既到了那里，他在黑暗寂静之中等候着，结果，听见一个米甸的兵向他同伴讲述自己的梦，说：“我作了一梦，梦见一个大麦饼辊入米甸营中，到了帐幕，将帐幕撞倒，帐幕就翻转倾覆了。”他同伴回答的话，使那在暗中的听者非常兴奋，他说：“这不是别的，乃是以色列人约阿施的儿子基甸的刀；上帝已将米甸和全军，都交在他的手中。”基甸看出这正是上帝的声音，借着两个外来的米甸人向他说话。他便回到手下的三百人那里，说：“起来吧，耶和华已将米甸的军队交在你们手中了！”[25]{PP 550.1}
§52
The Israelites were stationed on the brow of a hill overlooking the valley where the hosts of the invaders lay encamped. And the Midianites and the Amalekites and all the children of the east lay along in the valley like locusts for multitude; and their camels were without number, as the sand which is upon the seashore for multitude. Judges 7:12, R.V. Gideon trembled as he thought of the conflict of the morrow. But the Lord spoke to him in the night season and bade him, with Phurah his attendant, go down to the camp of the Midianites, intimating that he would there hear something for his encouragement. He went, and, waiting in the darkness and silence, he heard a soldier relating a dream to his companion: Lo, a cake of barley bread tumbled into the host of Midian, and came unto a tent, and smote it that it fell, and overturned it, that the tent lay along. The other answered in words that stirred the heart of that unseen listener, This is nothing else save the sword of Gideon the son of Joash, a man of Israel: for into his hand hath God delivered Midian, and all the host. Gideon recognized the voice of God speaking to him through those Midianitish strangers. Returning to the few men under his command, he said, Arise; for the Lord hath delivered into your hand the host of Midian.{PP 550.1}[25]
§53
上帝把进攻的方策指示基甸，他便立时去执行了。他把三百人分作三队。各人拿一只号角，和一个火把，藏在空瓶里。这三百人的布置，像是从各方面去攻击米甸营一样。在万籁无声的深夜，基甸的战号一发声，那三百人就都吹起号角来；于是大家打开空瓶，火把光如白昼，他们一齐冲向仇敌，大声喊叫说：“耶和华和基甸的刀。”[26]{PP 550.2}
§54
By divine direction a plan of attack was suggested to him, which he immediately set out to execute. The three hundred men were divided into three companies. To every man were given a trumpet, and a torch concealed in an earthen pitcher. The men were stationed in such a manner as to approach the Midianite camp from different directions. In the dead of night, at a signal from Gideons war horn, the three companies sounded their trumpets; then, breaking their pitchers and displaying the blazing torches, they rushed upon the enemy with the terrible war cry, The sword of the Lord, and of Gideon!{PP 550.2}[26]
§55
正在熟睡的军队忽然被惊醒了。只看见各方面有火把发出熊熊的火光。又听见各方面有号角的大声，和袭营者的呼喊。米甸人以为自己已经落在锐不可挡的军队包围之中，不禁惶恐万状。他们只顾惊呼逃命，遇见自己的人，以为都是敌人，这样就自相残杀起来了。当胜利的消息传开之后，那些曾经退伍回家的千万以色列人，便都出来追击那些逃命的敌人。那时米甸人向约旦河逃窜，想要过河返回他们自己的故土。基甸打发人到以法莲支派那里，号召他们在约旦河南部的渡口，截击米甸逃亡的人。同时，基甸和他的三百人“虽然疲乏，还是追赶，”他过了约旦河，竭力追那些已经渡了河的敌人。那带领全军的两个王西巴和撒慕拿，和跟随他们的一万五千军队，终于被基甸追上了，他们的全军四散，他们自己则被基甸促住击杀了。[27]{PP 550.3}
§56
The sleeping army was suddenly aroused. Upon every side was seen the light of the flaming torches. In every direction was heard the sound of trumpets, with the cry of the assailants. Believing themselves at the mercy of an overwhelming force, the Midianites were panic-stricken. With wild cries of alarm they fled for life, and, mistaking their own companions for enemies, they slew one another. As news of the victory spread, thousands of the men of Israel who had been dismissed to their homes returned and joined in pursuit of their fleeing enemies. The Midianites were making their way toward the Jordan, hoping to reach their own territory, beyond the river. Gideon sent messengers to the tribe of Ephraim, rousing them to intercept the fugitives at the southern fords. Meanwhile, with his three hundred, faint, yet pursuing, Gideon crossed the stream hard after those who had already gained the farther side. The two princes, Zebah and Zalmunna, who had been over the entire host, and who had escaped with an army of fifteen thousand men, were overtaken by Gideon, their force completely scattered, and the leaders captured and slain.{PP 550.3}[27]
§57
侵略军在这一次非常的失败中，被杀的至少有十二万人。米甸人的势力从此击破，永不能再向以色列人挑衅。这信息很快地传到远近各地，说，以色列人的上帝又为他的子民作战了。当四围的列国听见上帝用何等简易的方法，制胜了那勇敢好战的民族时，他们的惊惶惧怕，的确是言语所不能形容的。[28]{PP 553.1}
§58
In this signal defeat not less than one hundred and twenty thousand of the invaders perished. The power of the Midianites was broken, so that they were never again able to make war upon Israel. The tidings spread swiftly far and wide, that Israels God had again fought for His people. No words can describe the terror of the surrounding nations when they learned what simple means had prevailed against the power of a bold, warlike people.{PP 553.1}[28]
§59
上帝所拣选来击溃米甸人的领袖，原来在以色列人中并没有特殊的地位。他既不是一个首领，又不是一个祭司或利未人。他自称在他父家是最微小的。但是上帝看出他是一个勇敢正直的人。他不愿依靠自己，只愿随从耶和华的引领。上帝不一定要用大有才干的人来进行他的工作，却要拣选一些最能受他使用的人。“尊荣以前，必有谦卑。”（箴15:33）那些感觉自己无能，而愿意依靠上帝为他们的领袖和能力的人，就是最能蒙上帝任用的人。他要他们的软弱与他的力量联合，借以使他们成为强壮；他要他们的无知与他的智慧联合，借以使他们成为聪明。[29]{PP 553.2}
§60
The leader whom God chose to overthrow the Midianites occupied no prominent position in Israel. He was not a ruler, a priest, or a Levite. He thought himself the least in his fathers house. But God saw in him a man of courage and integrity. He was distrustful of himself and willing to follow the guidance of the Lord. God does not always choose for His work men of the greatest talents, but He selects those whom He can best use. Before honor is humility. Proverbs 15:33. The Lord can work most effectually through those who are most sensible of their own insufficiency, and who will rely upon Him as their leader and source of strength. He will make them strong by uniting their weakness to His might, and wise by connecting their ignorance with His wisdom.{PP 553.2}[29]
§61
上帝的百姓若能存着真正谦卑的精神，他就必为他们成就更多的事；可惜很少人能受重大的委托，或得到显著的胜利而不至自恃自负，忘记了他们依靠的乃是上帝。为此，每当耶和华拣选人从事他的工作时，往往要放过一般世人所视为伟大、多才、聪明的人。因为这些人常骄傲自满，并认为自己有办法，而不需要向上帝求什么指导。[30]{PP 553.3}
§62
If they would cherish true humility, the Lord could do much more for His people; but there are few who can be trusted with any large measure of responsibility or success without becoming self-confident and forgetful of their dependence upon God. This is why, in choosing the instruments for His work, the Lord passes by those whom the world honors as great, talented, and brilliant. They are too often proud and self-sufficient. They feel competent to act without counsel from God.{PP 553.3}[30]
§63
约书亚的军队环绕耶利哥，和基甸的一小队人围攻米甸营时，只用吹角这一个简单的行动，靠着上帝的能力就足以击败他仇敌的大军。从古以来，人所能设计的最完善制度，若离了上帝的能力和智慧，就必失败；依人看来是没有希望的方法，但只要是出于上帝的指示，并由人凭着谦卑和信心去作，就必成功。在基督徒属灵的争战上，人必须依靠上帝，并顺从他的旨意，正如基甸和约书亚在他们与迦南人的战争上一样。上帝为要引领以色列信靠他，在各样危难之中以信心寻求他的帮助，曾多次为以色列人显示他的大能。他今日照样愿意与他的子民通力合作，并借着他软弱的器皿成就大事。全天庭正等待着我们去求上天的智慧和能力，上帝能“充充足足的成就一切超过我们所求所想的。”（弗3:20）[31]{PP 554.1}
§64
The simple act of blowing a blast upon the trumpet by the army of Joshua around Jericho, and by Gideons little band about the hosts of Midian, was made effectual, through the power of God, to overthrow the might of His enemies. The most complete system that men have ever devised, apart from the power and wisdom of God, will prove a failure, while the most unpromising methods will succeed when divinely appointed and entered upon with humility and faith. Trust in God and obedience to His will are as essential to the Christian in the spiritual warfare as to Gideon and Joshua in their battles with the Canaanites. By the repeated manifestations of His power in behalf of Israel, God would lead them to have faith in Him--with confidence to seek His help in every emergency. He is just as willing to work with the efforts of His people now and to accomplish great things through weak instrumentalities. All heaven awaits our demand upon its wisdom and strength. God is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think. Ephesians 3:20.{PP 554.1}[31]
§65
基甸追击国家的敌人回来之后，谁知反而遇到自己同胞的申斥和谴责。当以色列人响应基甸的号召出来抵抗米甸人的时候，以法莲支派却退缩不前。他们看这事太危险了；而基甸既没有给他们特别的召请，他们就以此为借口，没有出来与他们的弟兄联合作战。但当以色列人胜利的消息传到他们耳中时，他们又因自己未曾参与而起了嫉妒的心。在米甸人败北之后，以法莲人曾照着基甸的指示，守住了约旦河的渡口，拦阻了敌人的退路。因此他们杀了许多仇敌，其中有米甸人的两个首领，俄立和西伊伯；这样，以法莲人继续作战，帮助完成了这一次的胜利。虽然如此，他们又嫉妒，又发怒，好像基甸是凭自己的意志行事似的。他们没有分辨出在以色列人的胜利中有上帝的帮助，他们没有感戴他拯救他们的能力和慈爱；这正足以显明他们本来就不配被选作上帝特别的器皿。[32]{PP 554.2}
§66
Gideon returned from pursuing the enemies of the nation, to meet censure and accusation from his own countrymen. When at his call the men of Israel had rallied against the Midianites, the tribe of Ephraim had remained behind. They looked upon the effort as a perilous undertaking; and as Gideon sent them no special summons, they availed themselves of this excuse not to join their brethren. But when the news of Israels triumph reached them, the Ephraimites were envious because they had not shared it. After the rout of the Midianites, the men of Ephraim had, by Gideons direction, seized the fords of the Jordan, thus preventing the escape of the fugitives. By this means a large number of the enemy were slain, among whom were two princes, Oreb and Zeeb. Thus the men of Ephraim followed up the battle, and helped complete the victory. Nevertheless, they were jealous and angry, as though Gideon had been led by his own will and judgment. They did not discern Gods hand in the triumph of Israel, they did not appreciate His power and mercy in their deliverance; and this very fact showed them unworthy to be chosen as His special instruments.{PP 554.2}[32]
§67
当他们带着战利品回来时，就忿然地斥责基甸说：“你去与米甸人争战。没有招我们同去，为什么这样待我们呢？”[33]{PP 555.1}
§68
Returning with the trophies of victory, they angrily reproached Gideon: Why hast thou served us thus, that thou calledst us not, when thou wentest to fight with the Midianites?{PP 555.1}[33]
§69
基甸回答说：“我所行的，岂能比你们所行的呢？以法莲拾取剩下的葡萄，不强过亚比以谢所摘的葡萄吗？上帝已将米甸人的两个首领，俄立和西伊伯交在你们手中；我所行的，岂能比你们所行的呢？”[34]{PP 555.2}
§70
What have I done now, in comparison of you? said Gideon. Is not the gleaning of the grapes of Ephraim better than the vintage of Abiezer? God hath delivered into your hands the princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb: and what was I able to do in comparison of you?{PP 555.2}[34]
§71
嫉妒心本来很容易引起纷争，终于造成分裂和流血的事；但是基甸谦恭虚怀的回答消除了以法莲人的怒气，他们就平平安安地回家去了。就原则而论，基甸是坚定而不妥协的，就战争而论，他是“大能的勇士，”但他显示的谦恭有礼的精神乃是人间所罕见的。[35]{PP 555.3}
§72
The spirit of jealousy might easily have been fanned into a quarrel that would have caused strife and bloodshed; but Gideons modest answer soothed the anger of the men of Ephraim, and they returned in peace to their homes. Firm and uncompromising where principle was concerned, and in war a mighty man of valor, Gideon displayed also a spirit of courtesy that is rarely witnessed.{PP 555.3}[35]
§73
以色列人感激基甸拯救他们脱离米甸人的手，就要立他作王，使他的子孙也可以继承王位。他们的这个建议是直接违反神权政治之原则的。因为上帝是以色列的王，若是把一个人放在王位上，这就表明他们已经拒绝了上帝的王权。基甸看清楚这一点；他的回答显明他的动机是何等真诚，何等高尚。他说：“我不管理你们，我的儿子也不管理你们；唯有耶和华管理你们。”[36]{PP 555.4}
§74
The people of Israel, in their gratitude at deliverance from the Midianites, proposed to Gideon that he should become their king, and that the throne should be confirmed to his descendants. This proposition was in direct violation of the principles of the theocracy. God was the king of Israel, and for them to place a man upon the throne would be a rejection of their Divine Sovereign. Gideon recognized this fact; his answer shows how true and noble were his motives. I will not rule over you, he declared; neither shall my son rule over you: the Lord shall rule over you.{PP 555.4}[36]
§75
可惜，基甸竟陷于另一个错误之中，以致祸患临到他的家和全以色列。在每一次大战争之后松弛的时期中，往往比战争时期的危险更大。基甸所遇见的正是这一种危险。这时他感到不胜烦躁。以前，他曾满意于履行上帝所给他的指示，但如今，他没有等待上帝的引领就开始为自己打算了。每当上帝的军队得到显著胜利的时候，撒但就必加倍的努力摧毁上帝的工作，他就是这样将种种念头和计划暗示给基甸，借此使以色列人陷入歧途。[37]{PP 555.5}
§76
But Gideon was betrayed into another error, which brought disaster upon his house and upon all Israel. The season of inactivity that succeeds a great struggle is often fraught with greater danger than is the period of conflict. To this danger Gideon was now exposed. A spirit of unrest was upon him. Hitherto he had been content to fulfill the directions given him from God; but now, instead of waiting for divine guidance, he began to plan for himself. When the armies of the Lord have gained a signal victory, Satan will redouble his efforts to overthrow the work of God. Thus thoughts and plans were suggested to the mind of Gideon, by which the people of Israel were led astray.{PP 555.5}[37]
§77
基甸因为曾奉命在天使向他显现的磐石上献过祭物，所以他便认为自己已被委派充当祭司的职任了。他没有等待上帝的许可，便擅自决定要预备一个合适的地方，并建立一个敬拜的系统，像在圣所里举行的一样。他既博得众人的爱戴，就不难实行他的计划。他一提出要求，众人就把从米甸人身上夺来的金耳环都给了他，也搜集了许多其他珍贵的物件，连同米甸首领所穿戴的华贵衣饰给了他，作为他的一份掠物。基甸既得了这些财物，他便仿照大祭司所穿戴的礼服，作了一件以弗得和一个胸牌。他这种举动不但使他自己和他全家犯了罪，照样也使以色列人陷入网罗。这未蒙上帝许可的敬拜，终于使许多百姓完全忘记上帝，而去侍奉偶像。及至基甸死后，大多数的人，连他家中的人在内，都一同离道叛教了。那曾一度推翻偶像的领袖，后来竟使百姓离弃了上帝！[38]{PP 555.6}
§78
Because he had been commanded to offer sacrifice upon the rock where the Angel appeared to him, Gideon concluded that he had been appointed to officiate as a priest. Without waiting for the divine sanction, he determined to provide a suitable place, and to institute a system of worship similar to that carried on at the tabernacle. With the strong popular feeling in his favor he found no difficulty in carrying out his plan. At his request all the earrings of gold taken from the Midianites were given him as his share of the spoil. The people also collected many other costly materials, together with the richly adorned garments of the princes of Midian. From the material thus furnished, Gideon constructed an ephod and a breastplate, in imitation of those worn by the high priest. His course proved a snare to himself and his family, as well as to Israel. The unauthorized worship led many of the people finally to forsake the Lord altogether, to serve idols. After Gideons death great numbers, among whom were his own family, joined in this apostasy. The people were led away from God by the very man who had once overthrown their idolatry.{PP 555.6}[38]
§79
很少人能看出自己言行的影响能达多么远。父母的错误往往会在子子孙孙身上产生很可怕的结果，及至本人死后，祸犹未止。每一个人都在别人身上产生着影响，而且将来必要为那影响的后果负责。我们的言语和行为都有一种感染的能力，而且只有到了永恒的将来，才能显明我们今生生活的影响。我们的言行所留下的印象，必要在我们自己身上发生或造福或肇祸的作用。想到这里，我们便看出人生是多么严肃的可畏了；我们要在谦卑祈祷中亲近上帝，求他照着他自己的智慧引导我们。[39]{PP 556.1}
§80
There are few who realize how far-reaching is the influence of their words and acts. How often the errors of parents produce the most disastrous effects upon their children and childrens children, long after the actors themselves have been laid in the grave. Everyone is exerting an influence upon others, and will be held accountable for the result of that influence. Words and actions have a telling power, and the long hereafter will show the effect of our life here. The impression made by our words and deeds will surely react upon ourselves in blessing or in cursing. This thought gives an awful solemnity to life, and should draw us to God in humble prayer that He will guide us by His wisdom.{PP 556.1}[39]
§81
居最高职位的人，还是可能引领他人陷入歧途的。最智慧的人也难免铸成大错；最强壮的人也可能失足跌倒。我们必需有那从上头来的光，不断地照在我们的路上。我们唯一的安全，在乎把我们的前途，无条件地交给那吩咐人说“跟从我”的主。[40]{PP 556.2}
§82
Those who stand in the highest positions may lead astray. The wisest err; the strongest may falter and stumble. There is need that light from above should be constantly shed upon our pathway. Our only safety lies in trusting our way implicitly to Him who has said, Follow Me.{PP 556.2}[40]
§83
基甸死后，“以色列人不记念耶和华他们的上帝，就是拯救他们脱离四围仇敌之手的；也不照着耶路巴力，就是基甸，向他们所施的恩惠，厚待他的家。”他们忘了他们的士师和救星基甸所给他们的帮助，竟立他庶出的儿子亚比米勒为王；他为要维持自己的势力，就把基甸七十个新生的儿子都杀了，只剩下一个。当世人放弃敬畏上帝的心时，他们不久就必离弃诚实和正直的道。人若对耶和华的怜爱存有感激的心，他们也必感激那些像基甸一样蒙主使用为他子民造福的人。以色列人对基甸全家的残酷行为，足以说明从这一班对上帝这么忘恩负义的百姓手中，不能希望什么好的待遇。[41]{PP 556.3}
§84
After the death of Gideon the children of Israel remembered not the Lord their God, who had delivered them out of the hands of all their enemies on every side: neither showed they kindness to the house of Jerubbaal, namely, Gideon, according to all the goodness which he had showed unto Israel. Forgetful of all that they owed to Gideon, their judge and deliverer, the people of Israel accepted his baseborn son Abimelech as their king, who, to sustain his power, murdered all but one of Gideons lawful children. When men cast off the fear of God they are not long in departing from honor and integrity. An appreciation of the Lords mercy will lead to an appreciation of those who, like Gideon, have been employed as instruments to bless His people. The cruel course of Israel toward the house of Gideon was what might be expected from a people who manifested so great ingratitude to God.{PP 556.3}[41]
§85
亚比米勒死后，在一些敬畏耶和华之士师的治理之下，暂时遏止了拜偶像的风气；但不久百姓又随从四围异邦人的恶习了。在北部的支派中，有许多人敬拜亚兰和西顿的神。西南部的人拜非利士的偶像，东部有摩押和亚扪的神，使以色列人的心离弃他们列祖的上帝。他们的背道很迅速地招致了刑罚。亚扪人制服了东部的支派，继而过了约旦河，侵入犹大和以法莲人之地。西部则有非利士人从海边的平原上来，到处烧杀劫掠。以色列人似乎又被委弃于残酷敌人的势力之下了。[42]{PP 557.1}
§86
After the death of Abimelech the rule of judges who feared the Lord served for a time to put a check upon idolatry, but erelong the people returned to the practices of the heathen communities around them. Among the northern tribes the gods of Syria and Sidon had many worshipers. On the southwest the idols of the Philistines, and on the east those of Moab and Ammon, had turned the hearts of Israel from the God of their fathers. But apostasy speedily brought its punishment. The Ammonites subdued the eastern tribes and, crossing the Jordan, invaded the territory of Judah and Ephraim. On the west the Philistines came up from their plain beside the sea, burning and pillaging far and near. Again Israel seemed to be abandoned to the power of relentless foes.{PP 557.1}[42]
§87
于是百姓再呼求他们所背弃所侮辱之主的帮助。“以色列人哀求耶和华，说：我们得罪了你，因为离弃了我们上帝，去侍奉诸巴力。”（士10:10-16）但忧伤并不能产生出真正的悔改。以色列人的哀恸是因为犯罪所招致的痛苦，而不是因自己违犯上帝的圣律法，使上帝遭了羞辱。真悔改不仅是为罪忧愁，乃是要决心离弃罪恶。[43]{PP 557.2}
§88
Again the people sought help from Him whom they had so forsaken and insulted. The children of Israel cried unto the Lord, saying, We have sinned against Thee, both because we have forsaken our God, and also served Baalim. But sorrow had not worked true repentance. The people mourned because their sins had brought suffering upon themselves, but not because they had dishonored God by transgression of His holy law. True repentance is more than sorrow for sin. It is a resolute turning away from evil.{PP 557.2}[43]
§89
耶和华借着他的一个先知回答他们说：“我岂没有救过你们，脱离埃及人、亚摩利人、亚扪人和非利士人吗？西顿人、亚玛力人、马云人，也都欺压你们。你们哀求我，我也拯救你们脱离他们的手。你们竟离弃我，侍奉别神，所以我不再救你们了。你们去哀求所选择的神，你们遭遇急难的时候，让他救你们吧。”（士10:11-14）[44]{PP 557.3}
§90
The Lord answered them through one of His prophets: Did I not deliver you from the Egyptians, and from the Amorites, from the children of Ammon, and from the Philistines? The Zidonians also, and the Amalekites, and the Maonites, did oppress you; and ye cried to Me, and I delivered you out of their hand. Yet ye have forsaken Me, and served other gods: wherefore I will deliver you no more. Go and cry unto the gods which ye have chosen; let them deliver you in the time of your tribulation.{PP 557.3}[44]
§91
这严肃而可怕的话，使我们想到一幅将来的景象，最后审判的大日，就是那拒绝上帝慈爱和轻视上帝恩典之人，必要亲身站在他审判台前的景象。那时凡把上帝所赐的光阴、金钱，或才能用来侍奉世界之神的人，要在他面前交代。他们已经离弃了他们忠实仁爱的良友——基督，去追求属世的享乐和安逸。他们固然有时候也想要归向上帝；可是世俗及其愚妄和欺骗的事吸住了他们的心。无价值的娱乐，骄人的服装，恣意的放纵食欲，这一切已使他们心里刚硬，理智麻木了；以致他们听不见真理的告诫，而轻视了自己的本分。凡是有永恒价值的事都被他们忽视了，直到他们丧尽了为主牺牲的一切心愿；一点没有想到主为人类付的那么大的牺牲。但是到了收割的时候，他们所种的是什么，所收的也必是什么？[45]{PP 557.4}
§92
These solemn and fearful words carry the mind forward to another scene--the great day of final judgment--when the rejecters of Gods mercy and the despisers of His grace shall be brought face to face with His justice. At that tribunal must they render an account who have devoted their God-given talents of time, of means, or of intellect, to serving the gods of this world. They have forsaken their true and loving Friend, to follow the path of convenience and worldly pleasure. They intended at some time to return to God; but the world with its follies and deceptions absorbed the attention. Frivolous amusements, pride of dress, indulgence of appetite, hardened the heart and benumbed the conscience, so that the voice of truth was not heard. Duty was despised. Things of infinite value were lightly esteemed, until the heart lost all desire to sacrifice for Him who has given so much for man. But in the reaping time they will gather that which they have sown.{PP 557.4}[45]
§93
耶和华说：“我呼唤，你们不肯听从；我伸手，无人理会。反轻弃我一切的劝诫，不肯受我的责备。……惊恐临到你们，好像狂风，灾难来到，如同暴风，急难痛苦临到你们身上。那时、你们必呼求我，我却不答应，恳切的寻找我，却寻不见。因为你们恨恶知识，不喜爱敬畏耶和华，不听我的劝诫，藐视我一切的责备，所以必吃自结的果子，充满自设的计谋。”“唯有听从我的，必安然居住，得享安静，不怕灾祸。”（箴1:24,25,27-31,33）[46]{PP 558.1}
§94
Saith the Lord: I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out My hand, and no man regarded; but ye have set at nought all My counsel, and would none of My reproof: . . . when your fear cometh as desolation, and your destruction cometh as a whirlwind; when distress and anguish cometh upon you. Then shall they call upon Me, but I will not answer; they shall seek Me early, but they shall not find Me: for that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the Lord: they would none of My counsel: they despised all My reproof. Therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices. But whoso hearkeneth unto Me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil. Proverbs 1:24-31, 33.{PP 558.1}[46]
§95
这时，以色列人在耶和华面前自卑。他们“就除掉他们中间的外邦神，侍奉耶和华。”耶和华的爱心就为他们担忧，“因以色列人受的苦难，就心中担忧。”大哉，我们上帝恒久忍耐的慈爱！当他的子民除掉那使他掩面的罪恶时，他就听他们的祷告，立时下手为他们行事了。（士10:16）[47]{PP 558.2}
§96
The Israelites now humbled themselves before the Lord. And they put away the strange gods from among them, and served Jehovah. And the Lords heart of love was grieved--was grieved for the misery of Israel. Oh, the long-suffering mercy of our God! When His people put away the sins that had shut out His presence, He heard their prayers and at once began to work for them.{PP 558.2}[47]
§97
上帝为他们兴起了一位拯救者，就是基列人耶弗他，他与亚扪人争战，结果很成功地摧毁了他们的势力。这一次以色列人虽受仇敌的压迫计有十八年之久，可是，他们又忘记了由受苦所得的教训。[48]{PP 558.3}
§98
A deliverer was raised up in the person of Jephthah, a Gileadite, who made war upon the Ammonites and effectually destroyed their power. For eighteen years at this time Israel had suffered under the oppression of her foes, yet again the lesson taught by suffering was forgotten.{PP 558.3}[48]
§99
当百姓又走上邪恶的道路时，耶和华就让他们为劲敌非利士人所压迫。他们多年以来遭这个残酷好战之民族不断的蹂躏，有时完全被他们征服了。过去他们曾与这些拜偶像之人相搀杂，在宴乐和敬拜上与他们联合，直到他们在精神和爱好上完全与他们同化了。随后，这些自称为以色列人朋友的，倒变成他们的死敌，用各种方法来毁灭他们了。[49]{PP 558.4}
§100
As His people returned to their evil ways, the Lord permitted them to be still oppressed by their powerful enemies, the Philistines. For many years they were constantly harassed, and at times completely subjugated, by this cruel and warlike nation. They had mingled with these idolaters, uniting with them in pleasure and in worship, until they seemed to be one with them in spirit and interest. Then these professed friends of Israel became their bitterest enemies and sought by every means to accomplish their destruction.{PP 558.4}[49]
§101
基督徒往往像以色列人一样，为了要得不敬虔之人的友谊，就甘受世俗之人的影响，依着世人的思想原则和风俗习惯行事，但他们终久必要发现这些口头上的朋友乃是最危险的仇敌。《圣经》明明教训我们，上帝的百姓和世俗之间是不能协调的。“弟兄们，世人若恨你们，不要以为希奇。”我们的救主说：“世人若恨你们，你们知道恨你们以先，已经恨我了。”（约一3:13；约15:18）撒但常借着不敬虔的人，在假装的友谊之下工作，来引诱上帝的百姓，陷他们在罪恶之中，使他们与上帝隔绝；及至他们离开了他们的保障之后，他就引领他的使者转过来反对他们，设法把他们消灭。[50]{PP 559.1}
§102
Like Israel, Christians too often yield to the influence of the world and conform to its principles and customs, in order to secure the friendship of the ungodly; but in the end it will be found that these professed friends are the most dangerous of foes. The Bible plainly teaches that there can be no harmony between the people of God and the world. Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you. 1 John 3:13. Our Saviour says, Ye know that it hated Me before it hated you. John 15:18. Satan works through the ungodly, under cover of a pretended friendship, to allure Gods people into sin, that he may separate them from Him; and when their defense is removed, then he will lead his agents to turn against them and seek to accomplish their destruction.{PP 559.1}[50]